Why so few manpackable options?

[Hutch]

Wait what? The FT897D is not a manpack rig? It has internal batteries (option) and 20w on all bands last I checked? I mean sure the 817 is a bit more friendly but still...the 897 has internal batteries so, I give that a check in "manpackable" box

Have you lugged one around? There's lots of better options the Yaesu FT-100 or 100D, the FT857, Icom IC706, Icom 7000 the Elecraft KX3 are all portable packable rigs. Just cause it has batteries inside doesn't make it a good man packable radio. Any of the above radios can be powered with battery packs that weigh a fraction of the FT897 batteries and work better. The FT897 would be my last pick for a packable radio.

 

[mr_fx]

A real man manpacks old boat anchors

 

[W5LZ]

... and sweats every step of the way!
- 'Doc